Happy Birthday Dave Weisser

Dave Weisser - the man is a legend! Over the years he has nurtured and provided the inspiration for many young and not so young musicians to find their way in the jungle we call jazz. He's done this, not just by his distinctive singing and trumpet playing, but also via the platform he's provided over the years for embryonic musicians to test and develop their burgeoning skills alongside seasoned players.

The knowledge young musicians acquired at Dave's Take it to the Bridge sessions not only complemented what they'd learned at music college or wherever but, in many ways, it was a superior knowledge to have gained for when it came to playing in the real world.

Tonight's early 82nd birthday tribute to the American expat singer/trumpet player revealed, judging by the number of musicians and fans who turned out to play or just listen, how important a figure he has been, and hopefully still is, in north east jazz.

If everyone - musician or listener - who had been involved with Take it to the Bridge over it's 20 plus years had turned out, The Globe would have had to switch the gig to the nearby Arena.

This is just an introductory post prior to my review of the actual music but, suffice to say, it was one of those nights everyone who filled the room will remember for a long long time - Lance